From rhinoplasties (nose reconstruction) to breast implants, we offer a wide range of plastic surgery options, including injectables for fine lines and wrinkles, face lifts, and body contouring. Look as good as you feel. Treat yourself with a consultation with “Dr Joe” and his professional team! Together we can create a more beautiful you!
Last month, I shared why I believe cleaning is more than just wiping surfaces — it’s about restoring peace, building trust, and helping people feel better in their own homes.
This month, I want to talk about something most women struggle with feeling overwhelmed before we even begin.
I’ve cleaned homes for doctors working 12-hour shifts. Homes with dogs, teenagers, laundry, sports schedules, long workdays, and little time to rest. I’ve also cleaned for women who feel guilty for needing help.
Being overwhelmed doesn’t mean you’re messy — it means you’re busy, tired, human, and doing your best.
The 3-Minute Reset Method
You don’t need to clean the whole house. Just choose one:
• Wipe the kitchen counters
• Clear the bathroom sink area
• Make the bed
• Put laundry or shoes in one basket
• Light a candle after you clean one small space
One clean spot can change your mood and help you feel more in control, even when everything else still feels chaotic.
A Thought to Carry with You
You don’t have to do everything at once.
Sometimes all you need is one reminder that you’re capable of something. Even a small space can bring peace and peace usually grows.
— See you next month, Sabrina
Farewell Friend Miss You We Will
So long as the memory of certain beloved friends lives in my heart, I shall say that life is good.” — Helen Keller
glo
From the executive editor
The Final Page
There’s no easy way to say goodbye to something that has meant so much for so long.
This February issue marks the final chapter of glo. For nearly 17 years, this magazine has existed to celebrate women, elevate local voices, and tell stories rooted in community, creativity, and connection. glo was created to honor the life and legacy of our publisher’s late wife, Gloria — a woman whose name, spirit, and warmth inspired the heart of this publication. We know she would have loved the work that unfolded within these pages, and it has been a profound privilege to help carry her legacy forward in such a meaningful way.
The decision to close glo was not made lightly. Like many print publications, we have faced ongoing challenges in a rapidly changing media landscape, including declining advertising support. While we understand the realities that led us here, that understanding does not make this goodbye any easier.
On a personal note, glo has been part of my life for more than 15 years. I first knew this magazine as a nonprofit partner, then as a freelance writer, and for the past nearly eight years, as Executive Editor. To have grown alongside glo in so many roles has been an extraordinary gift. This publication has shaped my career, expanded my community, and deepened my belief in the power of local storytelling.
Over the years, I’ve had the honor of working with incredibly talented writers, photographers, designers, advertisers, and partners who cared deeply about this magazine and the women it served. Together, we told stories of motherhood, resilience, entrepreneurship, friendship, grief, joy, and everything in between. I am endlessly proud of the work we created, and the heart poured into every issue.
To our readers: thank you for picking up glo, sharing it with friends, and supporting local media. To our contributors and partners: thank you for trusting us with your voices, your work, and your stories. glo existed because of you.
All good things must come to an end—but endings do not erase impact. The stories shared within these pages, and the legacy of Gloria they were created to honor, will continue to ripple outward long after the final issue is printed.
Thank you for being part of glo’s story. It has been an honor to help tell it.
athe Cover
Title of piece: Beauty Within
What inspired this piece?
I don’t overthink it—I paint from the moment, and the result is something vibrant and full of life. Perhaps the grayness of winter led me to create bold, uplifting colors.
Where do you draw inspiration for your artwork in general?
My work is inspired by the challenges people experience in life, both past and present. I want viewers to take a moment to truly see the painting and connect it to their own personal journey.
cover artist: Terri Luginbill
Hometown: Adams County area
Current Town: Decatur, IN
How long have you been creating art?
I’ve made art my whole life; it’s something that’s always been in my late father’s family.
What is your preferred medium?
I have experience in all mediums, but my favorite is watercolor.
What advice do you have for other artists just starting out? Everyone sees the world a little differently, and that’s what makes art special. There’s no right or wrong way to create— just do it the way you see it. Just like snowflakes, no two pieces of art are ever alike.
Where can we find your work?
I do it mainly for fun and as a hobby. I do not display anywhere. If anyone is interested in showing my artwork, let me know. a
publisher Ron Baumgartner | rbaumgartner@the-papers.com executive editor
Valentine’s Day and jewelry go hand in hand. Along with flowers and chocolate, it’s typically a holiday for grand gestures and pieces chosen to symbolize our feelings for another. But today’s Valentine’s jewelry is less about over-the-top sparkle and more about thoughtful design, wearability, and personal meaning. According to local jeweler Eichhorn Jewelry, this year’s most popular pieces strike a balance between romance and everyday style—making them gifts that feel just as special long after February 14.
Trends That Are Winning Hearts
HEARTS REIMAGINED
Hearts will always be a Valentine’s Day classic, but the look has softened. Instead of novelty designs, shoppers are leaning toward hearts of all sizes that feel subtle and wearable. Stackable heart bracelets are especially popular, allowing the wearer to layer pieces or keep things simple with a single, delicate design. It’s a romantic nod that doesn’t feel seasonal.
PAPERCLIP CHAINS
Paperclip chain bracelets and necklaces continue to have a moment. Clean, modern, and endlessly versatile, these chains work beautifully on their own or layered with pendants, charms, or initials. They’re a great option for anyone who loves a polished look without too much fuss.
HOOPS FOR EVERY MOOD
Hoop earrings remain a staple, with styles ranging from small and understated to bold and oversized. Petite hoops are perfect for everyday wear, while larger versions make an instant statement for evenings or special occasions. Their versatility makes them an easy and well-loved Valentine’s gift.
BEAD NECKLACES
Beads are back in a big way. Whether dainty and minimal or bold and eye-catching, bead necklaces add texture and personality to an outfit. They’re a fun choice for anyone who likes jewelry that feels expressive but still refined.
PERSONALIZED TOUCHES
Personalized initial necklaces continue to top wish lists. Simple and meaningful, they celebrate individuality while still feeling timeless. Whether it’s a single initial or layered with other pieces, personalization adds an extra layer of thoughtfulness to any gift.
LOCKETS AND CHARMS
Sentimental jewelry is having a resurgence. Lockets allow wearers to keep a photo or message close, while charms offer a way to build a story over time. Starting a charm bracelet or necklace on Valentine’s Day creates a gift that can grow with future milestones.
NATURAL DIAMOND ENGAGEMENT RINGS
Valentine’s Day remains a popular time for proposals, and natural diamond engagement rings continue to be a top choice. Their enduring appeal and symbolism make them a meaningful way to mark a major life moment.
Advice for Valentine’s Day Shopping
THINK LONG-TERM
The best Valentine’s jewelry is meant to be worn year-round. Look for pieces that fit seamlessly into everyday life, whether that’s a simple chain, classic hoops, or a bracelet that layers easily with others.
TAKE STYLE CUES
Pay attention to what your partner already wears. Do they gravitate toward gold or silver? Minimal pieces or bold statements? Let their existing jewelry guide your choice.
FOCUS ON MEANING
Jewelry becomes most powerful when it tells a story. Personalized initials, lockets, and charms often carry more emotional weight than flashy designs.
USE LOCAL EXPERTISE
Local jewelers like Eichhorn Jewelry can help narrow down options and offer guidance based on budget, style, and symbolism.
At the end of the day, Valentine’s jewelry isn’t about size or price—it’s about intention. A thoughtfully chosen piece can become a daily reminder of love, connection, and shared moments. That’s what truly makes jewelry a gift with heart.
Resource:
Eichhorn Jewelry, Decatur 260.724.2621, eichhornjewelry.com a
Winter Skincare Essentials
By Stacie Ball
From shoveling snowy driveways to navigating icy roads, winter weather brings a host of challenges. If those same blustery winds and frigid temps can damage streets and property, think what they're doing to your skin. Local skincare experts told us how winter weather can damage skin and how to keep the harm at bay.
"It's crucial to care for your skin in winter because cold, dry air strips moisture, weakening your skin's protective barrier," Maggie Saal from Merle Norman explained. "This leads to dry, itchy skin."
"In the long term, winter weather conditions can cause premature aging of the skin that lasts long beyond the winter snow," Amy Ramos of Belle Sante warned. "The dry air in homes and outside, along with the extreme cold and bitter wind, can cause skin to become parched, windburned, chafed, or textured from the lack of moisture."
“Although a good skincare regimen is essential throughout the year, winter routines need to be consistently more hydrating and lighter on exfoliation," Ramos continued. "The skin is more irritated and brittle, so aggressive exfoliation can be harsh. Where women often use a more luxurious moisturizer at night, many will need to boost the hydration in their winter daytime routine to combat the harsh factors we encounter inside and outside."
Even if skincare is the least of your worries, Dr. Joe from Plastic Surgery Innovations added that maintaining healthy skin integrity can even help fight seasonal illness!
These skincare experts agree that a good moisturizer is the most critical part of a winter skincare routine. Because winter cold and wind can be drying, moisturizer is what helps your skin look smooth and plump, not full of lines, wrinkles, rough texture, and redness. A good moisturizer and a solid skincare routine also set your skin up for success when applying makeup.
Saal loves helping customers, from finding a new lip color to creating the perfect skin care routine! Her winter beauty must-haves are all about hydration and effortless glam.
• Merle Normans Anti-aging Moisture Emulsion- essential to keep the skin hydrated and refreshed during the colder months, while also prepping the skin perfectly before applying makeup or foundation.
• Lip Conditioner with SPF- keeps lips nourished, smooth, and protected, making it the perfect base before any lip product. Ramos's Must-Haves:
• Skinbetter Science's Trio Luxe Moisture Treatment – a more
hydrating version of Trio Rebalancing Moisturizer. It helps reduce redness and deeply moisturizes the skin, so the moisture barrier prevents hydration from escaping.
• iS Clinical Reparative Moisture Emulsion – A lightweight moisturizer to help Winter skin feel supple and smooth and keeps makeup from settling into dry lines and wrinkles.
• iS Clinical Hydra Cool - Hyaluronic Acid serum that helps attract water to the skin and holds it so your skin looks plump and free of inflammation. It can go under your moisturizer in Winter or be used alone in summer.
• Sunscreen- Sledding, skiing, or taking a winter walk can still lead to sunburn without sunscreen. Blue light from computer and phone screens is an aging ray, so sunscreen is a non-negotiable year-round.
Dr. Joe and two aestheticians, Tina Mertz and Dawn Stine, insisted, "Routine skin care doesn't have to be complicated, just simple but consistent!"
Their must-haves leave room for choice.
• The Hydrafacial skin care treatment
• A hydrating cleanser
• An exfoliating product
• Sunscreen
• Do chemical peels and laser treatments in the Winter when the sun isn't as intense.
Skin is our protective barrier against infection, UV rays, and environmental damage. It only makes sense to take care of it! Make this the year you commit to caring for the largest organ on your body.
Resources: Belle Sante Med Spa, Fort Wayne 260.436.6900 | bellesantemedspa.com Maggie’s Boutique and Merle Norman Cosmetics, Fort Wayne 260.432.9315 | merlenorman.com Plastic Surgery Innovations, Fort Wayne 260.490.4673 | plasticsurgeryinnovations.com a
Welcome to “Eco Notes,” your monthly guide to simple, impactful ways to embrace a more eco-friendly lifestyle. Each month, we’ll share practical tips to help you reduce waste and make thoughtful choices that benefit our community and environment.
Eco Notes is brought to you by the Allen County Department of Environmental Management whose mission is to assist the community of Allen County, Indiana, in reducing its environmental imprint, and inspire best practices for reusing, recycling, and composting.
acwastewatcher.org
TAMING THE CHARGE — Recycling Power, Not Danger
e c o n o t e s
February marks National Battery Day. As batteries become more prevalent in our daily lives, proper charging and recycling are essential to help prevent fires and protect the environment. You may have a new gadget or even a child’s toy powered by lithium or alkaline batteries.
When not handled safely, batteries can cause fires in homes and throughout the waste stream, including garbage trucks, landfills and recycling centers. Batteries may also contain hazardous materials, such as lead and mercury, which should never be thrown in trash or recycling bins.
Damaged, defective or recalled (DDR) lithium batteries are especially dangerous due to their increased risk of fires or explosions.
Thank you for recycling batteries responsibly! Visit acwastewatcher.org to learn more.
SAFETY TIPS:
• Store batteries in cool, dry places, away from high temperatures.
• Charge devices on a hard surface – never on couches
• Avoid overcharging devices.
• Do not store multiple lithium batteries together.
• Cover battery terminals with clear tape before recycling.
• Never throw batteries in the trash; this can cause fires during transportation.
WHERE DO I RECYCLE BATTERIES?
• You can recycle batteries weekly during “Tox Tuesday” at our Household Hazardous Waste Facility (2260 Carroll Road), Do it Best partner stores or BatteriesPlus. Five pounds of batteries per resident per month may be recycled for free. Remember to tape both ends with clear tape! a
New Year Means New MRI Technology At Choice Imaging
By Jillian Christensen, RN
Doctors generally order MRIs to get detailed pictures of areas like the brain and spine, along with soft tissue and organs. These images help providers confirm diagnoses of illnesses like tumors, injuries, or infections. Traditionally, MRI scans are completed in a small tube-like structure, which can be claustrophobic and not accommodating to all people. However, companies like Fujifilm continue to pursue improving technology in MRIs to be more accommodating for all patients, save patients time, and provide the sharpest imaging available.
Choice Imaging utilizes an MRI machine called the ‘Velocity’, which is a product of Fujifilm. The company announced at a conference in Chicago late last year that a software upgrade for the Velocity is now available. This upgrade was installed at Choice Imaging in January and is part of the continuing mission to provide our region with the highest quality imaging available.
The update to the Velocity brings the highest strength available in digital imaging to the Fort Wayne area. This software upgrade now allows for standard imaging to be completed in less than half the time of other facilities, with some scans taking as little as eleven minutes. It also provides some of the clearest
imaging available for orthopedic scans, for areas such as knees, shoulders, and feet. The machine’s ability to move side to side allows the technician to iso-center the area that needs imaging, unlike traditional tubelike MRI machines. This lateral movement also allows for easier patient positioning for added comfort. The specialized design of The Velocity allows access to superior digital imaging for patients with claustrophobia, body-type restrictions, anxiety, and specific imaging needs. With its open sides, large table, and unobstructed view, the Velocity is built with patient care in mind.
Patient comfort is a top priority at Choice Imaging, where two-way radio is used
for constant communication with the technician, headphones or earplugs are offered to help block out the noise of the machine, and pillows for positioning are also available. Same-day, evening, and weekend appointments allow imaging to fit conveniently into patients' schedules. Radiology reports are always read by subspeciality board certified radiologists, and there is never any separate radiologist fee at Choice Imaging. With a standard 24hour turnaround time for radiology reports, physicians and patients can have answers as soon as the next day. As always, Choice Imaging is in network with most insurance companies, helping patients save hundreds of dollars compared to hospitals and other imaging centers. Likewise, they continue to offer the lowest cash rates in the region.
Resource:
Choice Imaging, Fort Wayne, 260.422.1491, choiceimagingfw.com a
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By Jennie Renner | Photo by Jeffrey Crane
Aisha (“Ash-uh”) Diss grew up with a single mother and three sisters. As a young child, she endured sexual trauma and kept it secret until later in life. By her late teens, Diss was a parent herself. At 19, when she was about to have her second child, she began to struggle with fears of repeating cycles of harm, leading her to finally disclose her abuse to her family.
“I think keeping (the trauma) to myself that long was probably more harmful than the actual abuse itself,” she said.
Despite ongoing battles with the law, mental health, substance use, and being in an abusive marriage, Diss remained high-functioning— working full-time and caring for her children. She faced multiple charges over the years, including OWIs in 1999 and 2002, and forgery and receiving stolen property in 2005.
In her mid-twenties, Diss got divorced and started having back spasms. When she was diagnosed with lumbar facet syndrome, she began taking prescriptions for the pain, which quickly developed into an opioid addiction.
In 2007, Diss received a prison sentence for possession of paraphernalia while on home detention. During the 10 months she was incarcerated, she lost custody of her children, her father passed away, and her mother died shortly after her release. The cumulative impact of the trauma and personal loss left her determined never to return to prison again.
Back at home, Diss found empowerment in therapy and education, quickly enrolling in college and building a supportive peer group. She became committed to helping others struggling with trauma and substance use, recognizing that many are not “bad people” they simply need healing and compassion.
By openly sharing her story, Diss confronted guilt and shame while inspiring others. When she got a job at SCAN as a case manager, her transparency about who she was marked a turning point in her life. She valued the experience and growth during her time on the job but also realized that some aspects of court- ordered case management conflicted with her belief in person- centered support. The way she wanted to help people moving forward was beginning to take shape.
Around 2020 while working at Brightpoint, Diss completed her first peer support training. The training felt like a clear calling, aligning with her purpose. At the same time, she launched a Facebook page called project.ME, a space for positive, all-pathways recovery messaging where people could connect and receive encouragement.
Drawing on her case management experience, Diss sought to provide peer support more professionally and soon joined the Jay County Drug Prevention Coalition. Through mentorship from the coalition’s executive director, she began shaping project.ME into a more organized initiative.
“project.ME really just exists out of a vision of things I wish I had,” she said. “There were so many times before I went to prison that I did want help, and I was trying to seek recovery, but I had no idea how to do that outside of the pathways that were court-mandated that I go through– like a 12-step program– that never felt too safe to me.”
At 46 years old, Diss is finally feeling comfortable in her own skin. As the founder and executive director of project.ME, she has discovered what makes her glow.
“At this point in my life, my glow comes from alignment. From living in a way that feels true in my body, not just good on paper. It’s not shiny. It’s not manufactured. It’s real—and I know that’s enough today.” a
AISHA DISS
Local Love Raising community-minded children
By Julie Young
Everyone knows that today’s children are tomorrow’s leaders, and right from the beginning, their parents are preparing for their future. They buy homes in the best school districts. They establish savings accounts for their post-secondary education. They sign their children up for athletic leagues to encourage a sense of collaboration and teamwork. They pay for private lessons to develop their artistic talents, and they are constantly looking for opportunities that will look great on a college application.
But how does community fit into the equation?
Although 46 states require some form of civic education, the length and depth of the curricula vary from state to state. For years, Indiana high school students were expected to take at least one semester of Government in order to graduate, but beginning in the 2023-2024 school year, the state required an additional semester of Civics at the junior high level. However, some experts say that’s not enough. If parents want to raise community-minded children, the lessons must begin at home.
• LEAD BY EXAMPLE.
When parents are engaged in community affairs, children naturally follow suit. Discuss local issues with your children in an age-appropriate manner. Take them with you when you go to vote. Talk about why it is important to be part of the process and why casting a ballot is important.
• EXPOSE THEM TO A NUMBER OF CAUSES. Community service opportunities are a great way for children to learn about the issues that matter to their community. Whether you spend a day distributing food at the local food pantry, make cards and send them to the local VA hospital, or volunteering with
any number of local organizations, your children will have a sense of the larger world around them.
• SUPPORT LOCAL BUSINESSES.
Small business owners are the backbone of the community. They are the ones who sponsor little league teams, reinvest in the community, create jobs, and contribute to the tax base. By explaining to your child why you patronize a particular store or restaurant (i.e. “They sponsored your baseball team last Spring”) you explain why that enterprise should matter to them.
• INTRODUCE THEM TO YOUR LOCAL INFRASTRUCTURE. Your local fire station loves to receive visitors and it’s good for your younger children to meet your first responders and learn a little more about what they do. Older children might learn more about how local government works by attending a school board or town council meeting (especially if there is an issue on the agenda that is of interest to them.)
• ROLE PLAY. When you visit a store or the post office, recreate the experience at home to gauge what your child learned from their excursion.
• ENCOURAGE THEM TO ENGAGE.
Today’s children often lack the ability to engage with those they do not know. By encouraging them to ask for help in a store, order their own meal in a restaurant, and giving them small tasks to accomplish sets a foundation for future engagement with others.
• SUPPORT THEM WHEN THEY CHOOSE TO DO SOMETHING.
Does your child want to start a lemonade stand to support a local cause? Does your child want to organize a canned food drive or a toy drive during the holidays? Collect money for a good cause? Don’t rain in their parade! Support their endeavors! Whether they raise a few dollars or are overwhelmed by the generosity of their neighbors, they will learn how hard work and dedication can make a difference.
• INSIST ON ACKNOWLEDGEMENT.
Although most would consider this a “manners” issue, teaching your child to acknowledge others through a proper introduction, a random act of kindness, or a thank you note you are helping your child recognize someone else’s effort. a
Happy Health To You!
Previous heart health research was mainly focused on men; however, newer research shows that women have specific gender related risk factors that need to be considered when it comes to heart health. Studies have determined that details like age of beginning menstruation, pregnancy, birth control, menopause, and hormone replacement therapy change a woman's risk. Research has also found that women who develop autoimmune diseases, have post traumatic stress disorder or depression are more likely to develop cardiovascular disease. However, there are still lots of ways you can reduce your risk for heart disease and keep your heart healthy. Start with your family health history; having an immediate family that has a history of heart issues increases your risk. Then consider your individual health history.
Meet with your doctor and discuss your own personal risk factors such as:
• Smoking
• Cholesterol Levels
• Blood Pressure
• Glucose Levels
• Gynecological History
• Weight
• Medications
• Diet But you don’t have to wait for an appointment with your doctor to start improving your heart health. Simple, small changes can result in a big positive impact if done regularly.
• QUIT SMOKING:
According to the CDC, smoking is the cause of 1 in 4 deaths from cardiovascular disease. Visit Smokefree.gov for free help and information.
By Jillian Christensen, RN
February is often thought of as the month of love, and as heart shapes surround us, it can serve as a reminder to assess our own personal heart health. Many women don’t realize that heart disease is the number one killer of women. According to John Hopkins, in the United States, over one-third of women's deaths each year are attributed to heart disease. An article from Indiana University School of Medicine states that in 2022, the number one cause of death in Indiana was heart disease. And that our state ranks 13th in the country for deaths related to heart disease.
• GET MOVING:
It’s recommended that adults get two hours and thirty minutes of activity per week. Something as simple as a brisk 30-minute walk most days counts. Or try joining an adult league of that sport you loved as a kid, or sign up for that dance or yoga class you’ve always wanted to try.
• IMPROVE YOUR FOOD CHOICES:
Eating a more heart-healthy diet doesn’t have to be complicated. Try to eat more vegetables and fruits, 2-3 cups a day is ideal. Limit your consumption of dairy products and processed foods. Seek to lower the amount of saturated fats (found in butter, fatty meats, sweets, and fast food) and trans fats (found in deep-fried goods, processed snacks, and baked goods) that you eat. Don’t forget to increase your fiber intake with foods that are whole grain or oatmeal to help your cholesterol.
• MAKE A SLEEP SCHEDULE:
Adequate rest is required for multiple body systems. It helps reduce our stress levels, decreases our risk for developing other chronic illnesses such as diabetes and depression, boosts our immune system and cognitive function, and helps balance our metabolism. Adults are recommended to get approximately 7-9 hours of sleep a night. Try going to bed and waking at the same time each day, even on the weekends to maximize the benefits of good sleep.
• REDUCE STRESS:
Stress is everywhere - family obligations, kids' activities, aging parents ,work deadlines, even caring for our pets can be stressful at times. But learning to manage that stress is extremely beneficial. Exercising, meditating, having a hobby, being outside in nature, and learning to say
no to unnecessary obligations can all help decrease your stress.
• LIMIT ALCOHOL INTAKE:
It can be tempting to have a drink to help relax, unwind, and think you’re helping with that stress. However, women shouldn’t have more than one drink a day or less if they are trying to lose weight, as alcohol contains lots of empty calories.
Heart Attack Signs In Women
Symptoms of a heart attack are often milder and less obvious in women than in men. If you have any of these symptoms, please don’t ignore them and seek medical help immediately.
According to The American Heart Association, the symptoms below are what women most commonly experience when suffering from a heart attack.
• Uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness, or pain in the center of your chest. It may last more than a few minutes or go away and come back.
• Pain or discomfort in:
• Arms (one or both)
• Back
• Neck
• Jaw
• Stomach
• Shortness of breath with or without chest discomfort.
• Other signs, including:
• Breaking out in a cold sweat
• Nausea
• Lightheadedness
• Anxiety
• Upset Stomach
• Unusual tiredness or weakness a
By BethAnne Brink Cox
When the weather is icy and cold, there’s nothing like a date night spent at home. You can make it as low-key as you like, and it will be just as special–maybe more so–as a night out on the town. You might enjoy it all so much that it becomes a regular thing with you and your love, and why not?
Start with some flowers. There’s no hard and fast rule about it: she can get them for him just the same as he can get them for her. Lopshire Flowers has a continually changing display of beautiful fresh flower bouquets; if you’re the kind who wants something everlasting, they also have healthy hardy houseplants and gorgeous silk flower arrangements. Take your time and browse! And speaking of everlasting: check out Love Katie Did Forever Flowers. Her stunning arrangements will make you take a closer look, and when you do, you’ll see that they are unique because they are made of sola wood!
How about some food? Check out the YLNI Winter Farmers Market, where 154 vendors offer things such as All Things Sweet and Sourdough, Ambrosia Orchard Cidery and Meadery, Biites (because who doesn’t love cookies?) Go to The Olive Twist for some special touches. Make their marvelous oils and vinegars into the best salad dressing you’ve ever tasted. And don’t forget to try their selection of teas: Wild Strawberry? Chocolate Mint? Cinnamon Orange? Who needs dessert when you can sip something so special?
What about an extra special touch? Light a fire if you’ve got a fireplace, and/or candles if you haven’t. Breathe in the wonderful, relaxing scent of lavender, as you’ll find at Bloomfield Lavender. They have room sprays, essential oils if you have a diffuser, and yes, beautiful candles! (And if you plan to kiss your date, they stock a wonderful lip balm. Just sayin.’)
So you have flowers, you have good scents, you have food and drinks. What else is there? Try things you wouldn’t ordinarily do, like music instead of the television. How long since you’ve played a board game? Trivial Pursuit was a perennial favorite when my husband and I were dating, and we still like it. And if you think you’re all talked out, you can buy one of any number of books that are filled with questions to ask each other. No matter how long you’ve been together, you might be surprised at all you still don’t know, questions such as: in a fire, after you’ve saved your loved ones and pets, what one thing would you rush back to save? What is one thing your love doesn’t know about you, and what you do think their reaction will be? It’s a nice change from the usual ‘how was your day at work, dear?’ kind of conversation.
Weather permitting, there is something special about a walk in the snow, lit by moon-and-starlight; stay out long enough to make hot chocolate taste extra good when you get back inside. If you don’t want to be outside, put on the music from your earliest days together and dance. No one is watching, and you might be surprised how sweet that seems.
Last but never least: think of a new tradition you can do together in this new year. Maybe a blank book that you leave in the same place, and each of you write in it whenever the mood takes hold. Come December, you’ll have a wonderful keepsake! a
Sacred Red Rocks & Soul Sisters:
A Girls Getaway to SEDONA
By Amber Bouthot
There’s something about Sedona that settles into your spirit the moment you arrive. Maybe it’s the way the red rocks glow at sunset or how the air feels charged with possibility. Whatever it is, it makes Sedona the perfect destination for a girls’ trip that feeds your soul as much as it soothes it.
For the past few years, my friends and I have escaped to Sedona together—a tradition that’s become equal parts adventure and retreat. We stay at a friend’s lovely home perched above the sweeping red rocks, but the area is full of charming Airbnbs and rentals, each with its own spectacular view. Whether your group craves pampering or exploration, Sedona delivers both in abundance.
Shop, Savor & Stroll
No trip to Sedona is complete without an afternoon at Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village. With its Spanish-style courtyards, vine-draped arches, and cobblestone walkways, it feels like stepping back in time. High-end boutiques, art galleries, and jewelry shops line the shaded paths—and when it’s time for a break, René is the perfect spot for a leisurely lunch with your girlfriends. Order a crisp glass of wine, share a few small plates, and toast to friendship and beautiful views.
Find the Awe
Sedona’s landscape is famous for stirring something deep within you. The Chapel of the Holy Cross, built right into the red cliffs, offers breathtaking views and a quiet moment of reflection. From there, make your way to Amitabha Stupa and Peace Park—a sacred, serene spot that encourages stillness and gratitude.
Adventure Awaits
For those ready to lace up their hiking boots, Cathedral Rock and Bell Rock are must-sees. Whether you’re seeking a challenge or a meditative stroll, the trails offer both—along with views that defy words. For a different perspective, hop on a Pink Jeep Tour and let an expert guide you through Sedona’s backcountry, or rise with the sun on a hot air balloon ride that paints the desert in gold.
Why We Go
Each year, our Sedona getaway reminds us of the beauty of slowing down and reconnecting—with nature, with one another, and with ourselves. We laugh until our sides ache, talk about everything and nothing, and return home lighter and more grounded than when we arrived.
Because a girls’ trip to Sedona isn’t just a vacation—it’s a reset.
And when you’re surrounded by those red rocks (and your favorite people), it’s impossible not to feel renewed. a
Love Lives Here: Local Makers Who Bring Heart Into the Home
By Carrie Klotz
In the quiet stretch of a cold winter, we’re reminded of how good it feels to return home. The icy outdoors makes home feel even cozier – soft candlelight against frosted windows, familiar objects poised like small beacons of comfort. Home becomes our refuge, our anchor, and our place to thaw.
Love Through Craft: Homespun House
In February, a month dedicated to love, it feels natural to look at what fills our homes with meaning. That meaning is often made by the hands of neighbors makers, artists, and small business owners whose work and products carry stories, intention, and heart. This month, we visited places where care is crafted, curated, and offered back to the Northeast Indiana community.
Love in the Everyday: Vessel Refillery
At Vessel Refillery, love begins quietly through the rituals of daily life. Owner Heather Eracleous describes her plant-based soaps, biodegradable cleaners, and dye-free candles as “the items that become part of someone’s routine.” And routine, she says, “is where comfort and meaning live.”
Her mission is rooted in intention. “We don’t offer unsafe choices,” Eracleous explains.
“Anything a customer brings home is my way of helping them intentionally help themselves.” For her, love is also woven through memory particularly in cardinalthemed items she carries in honor of her late father. In his final days, after weeks of an empty bird feeder outside his window, the tree suddenly filled with cardinals from dawn to dusk. “They stayed for three days, until he passed,” she recalls. That moment has guided her work ever since: love as presence, as remembrance, and as attention.
Love as Art: FWMoA’s Paradigm Gallery
Across town, the Paradigm Gallery at the Fort Wayne Museum of Art brings love into the home through artwork chosen with deep care. “When someone brings a piece from the gallery into their home,” team member Abby Leon shares, “they’re welcoming the energy, care, and intention of the artist who made it.”
Curation here isn’t just aesthetic; it’s emotional. “We consider how a piece might live in someone’s daily life, how it might be experienced over time, and what response it invites,” Leon says. For Paradigm, “love local” means valuing relationships over transactions, nurturing creativity close to home, and creating spaces that reflect community connection.
In Pierceton, Homespun House brings love into the home through texture, tradition, and craft. Owner Sheila Ronk has spent more than twenty years upcycling sweaters into woolen mittens a family effort supported by her sister in Iowa. “I love putting colors and patterns together,” she says. Each pair feels like a tiny act of reinvention. Her flannel baby blankets carry an even deeper tenderness. “Customers come back for another blanket every time there’s a new baby in the family,” Ronk shares. “It fills my heart with joy knowing my blankets are swaddling babies.” As the shop approaches its tenth anniversary, Homespun House stands as a testament to what community love looks like especially after neighbors rallied to support them through the pandemic.
Love Woven Through the Community
The spirit of love for community is woven throughout Northeast Indiana. At Painted Tree Boutiques, dozens of local makers offer handcrafted decor, textiles, candles, furniture, and gifts each piece telling a different story. YLNI Farmer’s Market brings love into kitchens through handmade foods, herbal blends, baked goods, florals, and pantry staples. And at A Perfect Blend in Bluffton, love enters the home through bright bouquets of fresh flowers, curated accents that celebrate life’s most precious moments, and seasonal home decor that brings personality and joy home.
Choosing Local Is Choosing Love
When asked what “Love Local” means, Vessel Refillery’s Eracleous put it simply: “It is slowing down, paying attention, and choosing connection over convenience.” Paradigm’s Leon echoed the sentiment: “Strong communities are built when we invest in one another.”
And Ronk of Homespun House tied it all together when she said, “Love local is small businesses committing to their communities –and communities committing to us.”
Because in a fastmoving world, love is choosing what’s made with care: something crafted by a neighbor, meant to warm homes and hearts this winter and for seasons to come. a
Painted Tree Boutiques
YLNI Farmers Market
A Perfect Blend
By Amber Bouthot
1 | Sunday
Decatur Coin Show & Marketplace
Decatur Riverside Center, 231 East Monroe St
Nearly 100 indoor vendors, hot food available. Contact Carla at 260.517.8182
Time: 8 AM – 2 PM (year-round) www.decaturfleamarket.com
3 | Tuesday
Appleseed Quilters Annual Garage Sale
Mizpah Shrine Center, Fort Wayne
Annual Garage Sale - Patterns, fabric, quilts, sewing supplies, more. Open to public. Cash. 6:30—9 PM www.appleseedquiltersguild.com
6 | Friday
First Fridays! On Broadway
Broadway Corridor, Downtown Fort Wayne
Join the Broadway Arts District FW as it celebrates FIRST FRIDAYS along the Broadway corridor and beyond!
Participating businesses along Broadway will feature special First Fridays happenings within their venue. Follow the Broadway Arts District FW page to see what you can expect and who is participating! www.facebook.com/BroadwayArtsDistrictFW
7, 14, 21, 28 | Saturdays
YLNI Farmers Market
3811 Illinois Road (new indoor winter location)
The YLNI Farmers Market provides a fun
7, 14, 21, 28 | Saturdays
Summit City Farmers Market
Electric Works, 1620 Broadway., Fort Wayne
The Summit City Farmers Market hosts a constantly changing variety of products, including meat, produce, farm products, baked goods, jewelry, artisan crafts, food trucks, and much more!
Time: 9 AM – 1 PM
https://www.facebook.com/summitcityfm
12 | Thursday
Tinware in the Early American Home
1424 W. Jefferson Blvd., Fort Wayne Settlers’ Hands-on-History program includes a tin-punch craft and refreshments.
Cost: $20. Time: 9-11:30 AM. Parking by the tennis courts. Reservations by February 4th. (260) 432-7314.
www.settlersinc.org
14 | Saturday
Bee Mine - Dessert Flights & Mead Pairing
21 | Saturday Bee Our Guest
Cupka’s Bee Good Meadery, 112 N. Main St., Auburn Open house, treats, and live music throughout the day! Stop in and say hi for the three year anniversary celebration!
https://beegoodmeadery.com/
28 | Saturday Revolutionary War Garrison
Cupka’s Bee Good Meadery, 112 N. Main St., Auburn 4 desserts will be available on a flight board to pair with your mead! https://beegood meadery.com/
21 | Saturday
Down the Line 20
Embassy Theatre, Fort Wayne Step back through the decades with the Embassy Theatre’s annual Down The Line event! Originally established to provide a meaningful stage for
The Old Fort, 1201 Spy Run Ave., Fort Wayne Harsh temperatures and snow make daily life difficult during the winter months! Continental soldiers and militia will be garrisoned at the Old Fort. Watch them perform daily duties and work details. Military drills and training will take place subject to the weather. Observe civilians and local inhabitants as they cook meals, mend and sew clothing and demonstrate their trade. Visit the local Sutler and see what types of goods can be purchased. 10 AM – 5 PM facebook.com/HistoricFortWayne
